Tantui is the essence of Northern Shaolin, and Sequence 1 is the essence of Tantui. It may be difficult for many people, including those who have practiced Tantui for many years, to see how this sequence can be used for combat. Yet, if you are competent you can apply this sequence against any opponent irrespective of what techniques he uses.

This is an effective sequence against opponents who frequently use kicks. It incorporates an important tactic called “windmill fists”, applying a pattern known poetically as “san huan tao yue” (“sam wan thow yuit” in Cantonese), which means “three rings round the moon”. It is like continuously hitting an opponent with two iron rods.

This is a complex sequence with many interesting techniques, including “thread palm”, “stolen step”, “reverse jab”, “hook hand”, “separate palms” and “nail kick”. The “nail kick”, used in its combat sequence, is both exquisite and deadly.

This is a relative simple sequence, but its application can be very profound. The lifted hand is not meant as a block, as some students may imagine it to be. Can you think of some useful applications of this lift-hand? One application, as used in its combat sequence, is to counter elbow strikes, like those frequently used by Muay Thai fighters.

The technique of “double spread” found in this sequence can be used in numerous effective ways for combat. It should not used as a double attack at an opponent, with one fist attack his head and the other attacking his chest, as some students may do. Such an attack would expose you to much risk. Effective uses of this technique can be found in the Tantui combat sequences.

Amongst other functions, this “single spread” technique is effective against Boxers. Using it in conjunction with a kick is quite formidable. Can you figure out how you would fight a Boxer using this Tantui sequence?

This sequence introduces a remarkable tactic of tricking an opponent to attack you. As he moves in, you strike him with a punch and a kick. There are, of course, many other combat functions. Try to figure out what these other combat functions are.

As the name of this sequence indicates, it is effective for breaking an opponent's locks and grips. But how can this be accomplished? The sequence looks simple enough. Herein lies the depth of Tantui. It is simple and profound.

This is a formidable sequence to implement a pressing attack. Unless they are well trained, opponents are often pressed helplessly against a wall when such a pressing sequence is applied on them. This sequence incorporates the famous Northern Shaolin kicking technique, “shuang fei tui” (“seong fei thui” in Cantonese), or “double flying kicks”.

What would you do if your opponent presses you down with his hand pressing on your elbow and the other hand gripping your wrist, as in the pattern “Lohan Tames Tiger”? An effective counter is “Stretch Fist” in this sequence. There are of course other combat functions for Stretch Fist. Can you think of any?